Search for a trip

Search for a day tour

Georgia

Georgia’s mix of natural beauty, medieval history and Soviet influences has made it one of Eastern Europe’s most fascinating destinations. Long hidden behind ‘the curtain’, it has emerged, butterfly-like on travellers’ maps. Boasting hilltop churches, meandering cobbled streets, mountainscapes and a wine region the French would envy, Georgia is sure to capture your imagination.

At a glance

Best time to visit Georgia

Spring and autumn are the best times to head to Georgia. Summers (especially July and August) can be very hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. This is a great time to escape to the Black Sea or the mountains to cool off. Winters can be very cold, although the country rarely freezes over. Power supplies are frequently interrupted however so don’t rely on heating. This is a beautiful, fertile region so bring an umbrella and expect rain at anytime of year!

Geography and environment

Georgia’s spiky topography makes for stunning scenery. The Greater Caucasus Mountains crisscross the country, divvying it up into pockets of forests, valleys and glaciers. Its only coastline runs 330 km along the stunning Black Sea. Georgia’s neighbours include the Russian Federation, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Top Picks

Top 10 Georgian Gems

1. Tbilisi

Set along a backdrop of hills and the Mtkvari River, Tbilisi is simply lovely. It’s been Georgia’s capital since the 5th century and the architecture tells the story of the city through the ages. There’s a fascinating mix of European, Byzantine, Middle Eastern and Soviet styles. Explore churches, winding alleys, parks and fortresses.

2. Kutaisi

One of the cradles of Georgian civilisation, Kutaisi is home to the immense Bagrati Cathedral. It may be in ruins but this 11th-century building still impresses from its hilltop.

3. Gori

Once an important strategic post in the Middle Ages, Gori is now better known as the birthplace of Stalin. Learn about his early years and how they shaped the man.

4. Uplistsikhe

Not far from Gori is one of the Caucasus’s oldest settlements. Dating back to the 5th century and the days of the Silk Road, Uplistsikhe has a 9th-century church, an ancient monastery and a 2nd-century Roman theatre to explore.

5. Chalato Glacier

Take the opportunity to hike to Chalato Glacier. Your efforts will be rewarded with stunning views of snow-covered peaks.

6. Homestay Hospitality

The Georgians are renowned for their hospitality. Be welcomed into a family home and get a taste of what it is to be Georgian. The houses may be simple but Georgian family life is rich.

7. Kazbegi

This nugget of a town may be distinctly Soviet in flavor but its setting is anything but dismal. Enjoy views out to Mt Kazbek and the hilltop Tsminda Sameba Church.

8. Telavi Wine Region

Whatever your favourite drop of wine, you’re sure to find a tipple to tickle your fancy here. Hundreds of varieties are grown and each village in the region has its own.

9. Shaumta Monasteries

One of the highlights of Telavi are the nearby monasteries. Dubbed the ‘old’ and ‘new’ monasteries, they’re nestled into woods among mountains. The old monastery dates back to the 5th century.

10. Batumi

Enjoy a beach break Georgian-style along the beautiful shores of the Black Sea. Take in views of rolling hills and holidaying locals as you sip on a Turkish coffee.

FAQs on Georgia

Most nationalities do not currently require a visa for Georgia, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, UK, USA & all EU member states. A short term visa will be issued according to the length of stay requested on the visa application form, but for a stay of no more than 30 days. This will only be a single entry visa. However, all nationalities should check with the nearest embassy for the latest visa information as this may be subject to change at short notice.
For any questions regarding visas or supporting visa documents please get in touch with The Visa Machine on the following contacts:

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: [site:intrepid_insurance_link]

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Georgia/public-holidays

Health and Safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From US?

From UK?

The World Health Organisation

Responsible Travel

Georgia Travel Tips

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for Georgia

1. Be considerate of Georgia’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.